Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief remains optimistic following Throne Speech

ANISHINABEK NATION HEAD OFFICE (July 13, 2018)— Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Glen Hare was disappointed following the reading of the Speech from the Throne as delivered by the Lieutenant Governor Elizabeth Dowdeswell on Thursday, July 12, but is choosing to remain optimistic.

“I was disappointed that the Throne Speech did not reference Indigenous people or the efforts that have been made to repair the relationship between Indigenous people and the province of Ontario, or a statement of commitment to continue on the journey of Truth and Reconciliation,” says Grand Council Chief Hare. “But I’m staying optimistic that the new Ontario government and the Anishinabek Nation can and will continue to work together to progress our relationship and create opportunities that will be mutually beneficial for both the Anishinabek and people of Ontario.”

The speech did allude to change coming and that action will be taken on reducing gas prices; lowering hydro bills; providing meaningful tax relief to parents and small businesses; creating and protecting jobs; and investing in mental health and addictions, including supportive housing.

“We look forward to meeting with the new Premier of Ontario and Cabinet to continue the work and progress of the previous provincial government and the Anishinabek to overcome the challenges and disparity that we continue to see in society between Indigenous communities and the rest of Ontario,” says Grand Council Chief Hare. “We hope to continue working with the province of Ontario in areas such as in Child Well-being, Education, housing and infrastructure, child care, health care, clean drinking water.”